Commercial Flat Roof in Springfield, MO
Flat roofing is a popular roof type for commercial buildings, like offices, retail stores, warehouses, and industrial buildings. They can also be used on residential structures. Despite its name, flat roofing isn’t entirely flat. Oftentimes, there is some degree of sloping so that water can escape. Flat roofs have what is known as a “low-slope,” which offers the slightest of angles that allow water to flow through the built-in drains. Flat roofs can be made from a variety of materials, each having its pros and cons. Our roofing contractors will work with you to decide which type of flat roofing is best for your commercial building.
Commercial Flat Roof Materials
Flat roofs can be made from a variety of materials, including modified bitumen, thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), and more.
The flat roofing solution that John Beal recommends to our clients is TPO. TPO roofing is made of rubber, ethylene, and propylene. These materials are bonded together using a variety of fillers, such as talc or fiberglass. When combined, these materials make TPO one of the strongest solutions available to flat roofs. The average lifespan of TPO roofing is 15 to 20 years. Other Springfield flat roofing systems can be divided into two groups: single-ply and multi-ply.
Here are a few of the single-ply options available to commercial properties.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): a single-ply rubber roofing membrane, installed using an acrylic bonding agent. Commercial flat roofing in Springfield is one of the easier solutions to install, even for roofs with unusual layouts. Because it is easier to apply, homeowners save time and money during installation. One disadvantage of an EPDM roof is that its rubber surface tends to heat up in the sun, which can have a negative impact on the heating & cooling bill of the homeowner. This should be considered when the homeowner is considering which roof might be best for them.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): another great solution for those with flat roofing in Springfield. While more expensive than EPDM, PVC roofing is also more durable. This roofing solution is known to be able to withstand up to 300 pounds per inch, exceeding the industry standard of 200 pounds per inch by 50%. The strength of this material adds to it’s lifespan. While other flat roofing in Springfield lasts 15 to 20 years, PVC can last as long as 30 years! An incredible amount of time, given the damage inflicted on many flat roofs. Another benefit of PVC roofing is that it is more energy efficient. PVC is offered in the color white, which can reflect the up to 78% of the sun’s rays away from your home, rather than absorbing it like EPDM.
Along with single-ply, there are multi-ply roofs. They have a variety of benefits and challenges that may be useful to your commercial property.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is an older method of flat roofing that still remains very effective. BUR is often called “tar and gravel roofing” because those are the materials used to make it. BUR is very heavy but is useful at protecting commercial flat roofing from heavy foot traffic.
Modified bitumen roofing is a type of asphalt-based roofing that has been modified with various polymers, which makes it strong and durable. Modified bitumen roofs resist tears, punctures, and UV rays, making it a great option for flat roofs.
Silicon Spray is a spray coating, applied to the surface of your roof. It offers better leak protection and is easier to install than installing rubber or tar, but the materials used in this spray can also be quite costly.
What are the advantages of flat roofing?
Commercial flat roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their many benefits. Flat roofs are easier and less expensive to construct than traditional pitched roofs. They also allow for more usable space since there is no need for an attic or crawl space. Commercial flat roofs are easier to inspect and repair than pitched roofs, and they often have a longer lifespan. As a result, commercial flat roofing provides a number of advantages that make it an appealing option for businesses.
Why are flat roofs common on commercial buildings?
Flat roofs are used often on commercial buildings because they tend to be less expensive to build than pitched roofs, keeping construction expenses down. Flat roofs are also easier to maintain and repair than pitched roofs. They offer more usable space on the top of the building that can be used for HVAC systems or other mechanical equipment.
How do you maintain a flat roof?
Flat roof maintenance consists of yearly inspections to check for any leaks, cracks, or tears in the roofing membrane. It’s also important to regularly clear away any debris, as this could clog the drains and cause water to build up on the roof. With proper care and regular maintenance, a flat roof can provide years of protection for your commercial building.
Best Springfield Flat Roofing Contractor
If you’re interested in the learning more about which type of commercial flat roofing solution might be best for your property in Springfield, reach out to the experts at John Beal Roofing. We’ll provide you with a FREE estimate, so you can make the the choice that will be most efficient for your commercial property. Our estimates also come with the John Beal Low Price Guarantee! If you can find a better quote anywhere, we’ll match it or pay you $100! See offer for more details*